Religious Dimension
Sunday's Gospel Reading
"For many are invited but few are chosen".
In Matthew 22, 1-14 we are inspired by the parable of the wedding feast which is a story about being inclusive and welcoming everyone. Jesus teaches us that the Kingdom of God is open to everyone, not only his followers.
This parable is told using the familiar setting of a wedding feast. During biblical times, wedding celebrations lasted for days and Jesus told his people about a wedding feast where those that were invited did not attend. They had all sorts of excuses which would have been insulting to the host and also the bride and groom. So the host went to the streets and invited anyone he could find and they joined in with the celebration filling the hall with people.
This parable reminds us that often we are called to do things which we know are right for ourselves and others, but sometimes we make up reasons and excuses not to take part. Taking action can sometimes be a challenge and stop us from being where others need us.
I wonder if we can think of times where we are called to do something for someone else but we let ourselves down. With that leap of faith we can push ourselves to be there to support others and when we do the feeling is 'great'.
Ask God for the strength, motivation and support to help you with something that is calling you or your family.
Reconciliation Commitment Masses
We thank all of the families who attended mass on the weekend to help our Year 3 students commence their journey of Reconciliation at the commitment masses on Saturday and Sunday. So many people were present and it was lovely to see the students stand at the altar to be recognised for making this first step in their sacramental journey.
Father Dispin's 50th birthday celebrations
On Saturday evening, we also celebrated Father Dispin's 50th birthday at mass and we saw some wonderful photos of him with his family in India and early priesthood. We learnt about many other hobbies and interests that we did not know before. We knew that Father loved cooking and his family, but had no idea about his passion for fishing. Here is a photo of what was brought up at the the beginning of the mass procession.
A very big thankyou to our Vice captains Alana and Ivy for preparing a speech and sharing how Father Dispin has helped our students with their faith journey so far. Both of our leaders spoke confidently and also wished Father Dispin a happy birthday on behalf of the families and staff at St. John's Primary School.
Important Dates this term:
| What: | When: | Where: |
|---|---|---|
| Class Mass this week - 5/6C | Tuesday, 17 October, at 10am | St. John's Church |
Year 5 Weekend Level Mass St. James and St. John's | Sunday, 5 November, at 11:15am | St. John's Church |
| Whole School Remembrance Day Liturgy | Friday, 10 November, at 11:45am | Mary MacKillop Space |
| Year 3 Sacrament of Reconciliation | Tuesday, 14 November, at 6pm | St. John's Church |
| Prep and new families welcome mass for 2024 | Sunday, 3 December, at 11:15am | St. John's Church |
| Whole School End of Year Thanksgiving Mass | Thursday, 14 December, at 7:00pm | St. John's Church |
Prayers for peace and love always
Melinda Buscema (Deputy/REL)
mbuscema@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au
EXCITING NEWS
THE PARISH ARE STARTING A PLAYGROUP
Come along on the 3rd Thursday of the Month at 11am to the St John’s Parish Playgroup.
Location: St John’s Church Narthex
When: 21st September at 11am
Children aged 0-5 with their care providers for one hour of play, fun and connection.
Please register your interest in attending with the parish office at 9401 6366 or mitcham@cam.org.au by Tuesday, 19 September.
